History of the Vogelpark Steinen

A Special Kind of Bird Park

In the beginning there was only a bird lover’s idea of creating a birds’ paradise in an often overlooked valley. Vogelpark Steinen is located in a pastoral landscape, away from major routes, and between the towns of Steinen-Schlächtenhaus-Hofen and Steinen-Weitenau. The property encompasses an area of approximately 25 acres. Known to the locals as “Mistgraben” (Lonely Trench), this hollow valley could not be properly used for agricultural purposes. Over the years, the entire area became available for development. The necessary development plan for this area was created at the same time. Landscape architects, civil engineers, and a team of architects worked together on the design. The main objective during the planning stage was to mold the landscape as needed while retaining its native features. This mandate served as the basis for landscape formations, plant areas, ponds, buildings, and paths winding through the park. The development included a 1.5 mile water main and 1.5 miles of sewer pipes. A high-level tank was built to hold sufficient water reserves. The park has its own transformer for the energy supply. The aviaries, in particular the hot house, are heated by a central heating unit and underground heating conduits. Solar energy panels provide additional heat for the hot house’s sprinkler system.

After the development plan was licensed and the preparations were thoroughly prepared by experts, the building phase began in 1974. For several years, the owners built ponds, aviaries, and open-air enclosures. A generously designed area and spacious aviaries were created that met the requirements for all birds and the other animals to live in the park.

The park was dedicated and opened to the public in 1980. Among the honorary guests were the minister of justice Dr. Eyrich and numerous other representatives of municipal offices and townships of the area. The speeches given that day primarily focused on the cultural and economic significance of the project both for this small valley and the entire region.

The hot house was dedicated in 1981. The structure covers an area of 500 sqm (5,400 sqf) and has a volume of 3,000 cbm (106,000 cbf). It is divided into a large open-air enclosure and an aviary with indoor and outdoor areas. Lush tropical plants shape the environment with moss and ferns, lending the house and its facilities a distinctly tropical character. Blooming orchids and bromeliads excite every nature lover.

Additional open-air facilities were completed in 1983. Approximately 300 bird species from all continents were brought to the Vogelpark Steinen within three years of completion of the park.

In 1989 a large play and adventure area was built in the upper park area, separated from the bird area. It includes the outdoor restaurant with its large sun decks, picnic areas, and huts. Additional attractions were to follow, such as the ornithology center. Visual aids and display cases tell interesting facts about the bird population native to this area. There is also a building with egg watch incubators where chicks are hatched daily.

In 1996 the arboretum was created with 28 of the best-known trees that are native to the forests in the area. The falconry was added in 1999. It has approx. 600 seats and is located near the park entrance. Bird of prey flight demonstrations are scheduled daily at 11 am and 3 pm. They include eagles, falcons, and owls.

In 2000 the open-air enclosure with the barbary macaques was built. Supervised barbary macaque feedings are scheduled daily after the birds of prey flight demonstrations at 12 noon and 4 pm.

In 2002 additional open-air enclosures were dedicated. They host Bennett’s kangaroos and a areas where African pygmy goats can be stroked as well as parakeets. The bistro/cafe was expanded in 2003. It now seats approx. 100. A movie theatre was built at the same time. It is used to provide glimpses scenes and to demonstrate the work it takes to keep the bird park running.

A large restaurant area with paddling pool, bare-foot path and carp pond was opened in 2006. It offers every visitor, including children, welcome refreshment when temperatures are high in summer. A large water chute has just been added to the children's play area. Additional space on the terrace has also been provided.

 

Hours of operation: daily from mid March to the beginning of November.

The bird park is made possible through private enterprise, and it receives no public funding. All operating costs have to be covered through admission tickets. Any further park expansion is based on current financial feasibility. It is possible to adopt individual animals.